BRIELLE, NJ – Motorists and boat owners may feel like they’re paying too much for fuel – even though prices have come down in recent weeks – but annual inspections for accurate measurement at all fuel pumps in Monmouth County have turned up very few violations.

Last week, Freeholder Serena DiMaso joined a team from the county’s Department of Weights and Measures at Hoffman’s Marina in Brielle to check gasoline and diesel pumps at the dock for accuracy of volume and price. All pumps at the marina were accurate.

“Inspectors at the county Weights and Measures department are the unsung heroes of the Monmouth County consumer,” DiMaso said. “Motorists and boat owners can be assured they are getting what they pay for. Inspectors check every pump to ensure that the price is calibrated properly and actual volume being pumped is correct. The work they do touches the lives of consumers every day.”

This year’s inspection comes as the average price throughout New Jersey this week is $3.27 per gallon, and higher for diesel fuel.

In addition to checking weighing and measuring devices such as gasoline pumps, scales and oil delivery trucks, the county assures the accuracy of every consumer product sold by weight, measure, count, volume or time. Every device used in trade and almost every product sold in the marketplace is regulated in one way or another by Weights and Measures.

Like any other weighing or measuring device in Monmouth County that is used in trade, fuel pumps must be inspected and tested by the Monmouth County Division of Weights and Measures every year. This year inspections began in late April and should be completed by mid July. By the time inspections are completed, inspectors will have checked 5,000 pumps at 202 service stations and 19 marinas.

“Most gasoline pumps are accurate,” said Ben Peluso, superintendent of the Department of Weights and Measures. “The majority of individuals who operate these stations are honest and hard working people. However, from time to time, violations do occur and if they are serious enough a summons is issued and a complaint is filed in the local court.”

Results of this year’s gasoline pump inspections won’t be available until August.

Two things that a consumer should do when purchasing fuel: make sure the pump has been reset to zero before the attendant begins to put product in their vehicle, and look for a current, dark blue Weights and Measures sticker on gasoline pumps that will show they have passed inspection.

Anyone who has a concern or question about any station should call the Monmouth Department of Weights and Measures at 732-431-7362.